Disney Forms Task Force to Explore and Implement Artificial Intelligence in All Business Areas
Amidst an ongoing strike by Hollywood writers and actors over concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on their jobs, Walt Disney has taken a bold step by establishing a task force dedicated to researching and applying AI technology across its entire business operations.
The task force, launched earlier this year prior to the Hollywood writers’ strike, aims to develop in-house AI applications and cultivate partnerships with startups. With 11 job openings that require AI or machine learning expertise, Disney is actively seeking candidates to cover a wide range of areas, from Walt Disney Studios to its theme parks, engineering group (Walt Disney Imagineering), television division, and advertising team. The company is particularly focused on creating a cutting-edge AI-powered advertising system.
In an industry where AI is viewed by many writers and actors as a threat to job security, it has become a significant concern during contract negotiations between the striking Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guild of America.
Disney has long been committed to technological innovation, dating back to its early days. During Bob Iger’s first tenure as Disney’s CEO in 2005, he identified embracing technologies as one of the company’s three primary priorities. In 2008, Disney announced a substantial research and development initiative in collaboration with leading technology universities worldwide. Furthermore, the company has funded laboratories at esteemed institutions such as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich and Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Disney Research, as stated on its website, has been actively exploring AI, machine learning, and visual computing in Switzerland.
As Disney ventures into the realm of AI, the company remains cautious in its public discussions. Striking a balance between embracing technological advancements and addressing the concerns of industry professionals, the entertainment giant aims to navigate this transition in a thoughtful manner.
By establishing a dedicated task force and recruiting experts in the field, Disney aims to ensure that it stays ahead of the curve, leveraging AI to enhance its operations in a profound and innovative way.
The move is undoubtedly a significant step for Disney, a company renowned for its commitment to storytelling, creativity, and technical prowess. Disney’s foray into AI is expected to shape the future of entertainment, and it will be fascinating to witness the outcomes of their research and partnerships in this frontier.
As the Hollywood strike continues, dialogue and negotiations between industry professionals and stakeholders will play a crucial role in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. With AI’s rapidly evolving landscape, it is essential for traditional industries to adapt and find ways to embrace new technologies while preserving the essence and importance of human creativity and talent.
Disney’s task force signifies the company’s dedication to remaining at the forefront of innovation while ensuring that the integration of AI into its operations is carried out responsibly, taking into account the broader impact on individuals and the industry as a whole.
